By Atlantic Reports

Maryam Umar, a student with a limb difference who writes with her toes, has completed the academic requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics at Gombe State University.

With her final-year coursework, examinations and project completed, Umar is awaiting graduation, a milestone she says became possible through a scholarship and support from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

Speaking in Gombe on Monday, Umar recalled an educational journey interrupted by financial difficulties and barriers associated with her disability.

She began primary education at the age of 11 at Hammadaji Primary School in Gombe metropolis but could not immediately proceed to secondary school. She later attended Government Day Secondary School, Nasarawo, where she obtained her senior school certificate.

Umar said some people doubted her prospects of attending university. Although she passed the relevant examinations conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and the National Examinations Council, she lacked the financial support to continue.

Reports about her circumstances eventually attracted ASUU’s attention, she said. Union representatives visited her family home, verified her educational credentials and offered her a scholarship.

The assistance opened the door to university, but completing timed assessments presented another challenge.

Umar explained that writing with her toes took additional time, making it difficult to finish her first test within the allotted period.

“During my first test, I couldn’t finish within the allocated time and reported the matter to the union,” she said.

“The ASUU chairman subsequently wrote to my Head of Department, requesting an additional time for me during tests and examinations. The department granted the request and continued to support me throughout my studies.”

She also credited her lecturers with providing support and understanding throughout her degree programme.

Her experience highlights the importance of financial assistance and appropriate assessment arrangements in enabling students with disabilities to participate in university education.

Umar said she completed her studies without failing any course and expressed happiness at reaching the end of the programme.

“I am happy that I am about to graduate. I give God the glory because I have had no problem academically,” she said.

Reflecting on her own experience of street begging before gaining access to university education, Umar encouraged other people with disabilities to pursue their ambitions.

“You should not see begging as the only option. I once begged on the street, but now I am about to achieve my dream of becoming a graduate.”

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.